Digital Arrest: What is it and How to Protect Yourself from Online Scam?

New Delhi: A recent case of digital arrest emerged where a 67-year-old Mumbai-based woman was placed under the scam by online fraudsters, who forced her to pay Rs 14 lakh in exchange for clearing her name in a non-existent money laundering case, according to officials.

Speaking about the case involving the elderly woman, a police official said, "The accused posed as Delhi Telecom Department and Cyber Crime branch personnel. They placed her under 'digital arrest' after accusing her of being involved in a high-profile money laundering case. The crime took place between September 1 and 5. The victim stays in Mumbai's Kandivali West with her sister-in-law. A case was registered on Saturday on her complaint at North Region Cyber police station. As per the complaint, the woman received a call on September 1 from a person who identified himself as an official of Delhi Telecom Department. She was told that a case was registered against her at Delhi Cyber crime branch. The accused told the woman that her Aadhaar card was used in the crime."

What is Digital Arrest?

'Digital arrest' has become the newest form of cyber scam in which victims are made to stay on video calls for hours till they transfer all their money to the fraudsters. However, so far, there has been nothing called 'digital arrests' in law.

This deceptive tactic is used by cyber fraudsters to exploit people under the guise of law enforcement or investigative agencies.  This usually involves conmen reaching out to potential victims through phone calls or digital means, falsely claiming that there is a warrant for their arrest or that they are under investigation.

These conmen then demand sensitive information, such as personal or financial details.

The cyber-security agency CERT-In issued an advisory states, "the scammer threatens the victim with arrest or legal consequences unless he takes immediate action. They often create a sense of panic to prevent rational thinking. Under the guise of "clearing their name", "assisting with the investigation" or "refundable security deposit/escrow account", individuals are coerced into transferring large sums of money to specified bank accounts or UPI IDs."

PM Modi Warns Against 'Digital Arrest' Fraud

Prime Minister Narendra Modi during an episode of 'Mann Ki Baat' issued a stern warning to the nation regarding the rising menace of 'digital arrest' fraud. He emphasised that no government agency conducts interrogations over the phone or demands money, urging citizens to remain vigilant.

He described the modus operandi of scammers, who impersonate officials from organizations like the police, CBI, and RBI . "These callers create an atmosphere of fear and urgency," he explained. "They collect personal information and use intimidation tactics to manipulate their victims."

"There are 3 steps of digital security- stop, think, and take action. If possible, take a screenshot and do the recording. No government agencies give such threats over the phone nor do they demand money," he added, reported ANI.